Amidst an ongoing controversy surrounding the Marathi language in Maharashtra, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has given controversial advice to his party workers. Addressing a recent event in Mumbai, Thackeray told MNS workers "not to assault people for not speaking Marathi". However, he added a caveat, stating that if someone "creates unnecessary drama," they should be "hit below their eardrums". Furthermore, he advised them against recording any such incidents, saying, "Let the person who was beaten say he was beaten; you don't need to announce it".
Thackeray's remarks come in the wake of several incidents involving MNS workers allegedly targeting individuals and establishments for not using Marathi. Just hours before his address, MNS workers reportedly vandalized the Mumbai office of economist Sushil Kedia after he declared on social media that he would not learn Marathi. Kedia, a long-time Mumbai resident and founder of Kedionomics, had posted critical statements against Thackeray's conduct. Following the attack, Kedia apologized for his remarks, stating that they were made in distress and under pressure. He also appealed to the government for protection, expressing fear that any misspoken word in Marathi could lead to further violence.
Another incident occurred in Mira Road, where a shopkeeper was allegedly assaulted by MNS workers for not speaking Marathi. The attackers filmed the incident and shared it online, sparking outrage and prompting local traders to shut down shops in protest. These incidents have ignited debates over linguistic pride and intolerance in Maharashtra, drawing criticism from various quarters.
Thackeray's comments have been interpreted as a tacit endorsement of violence, as long as it is not recorded. His remarks have drawn sharp reactions, with some accusing him of inciting violence and others defending his stance as a necessary measure to protect Marathi language and culture. The MNS chief's message to his workers was clear: prioritize the Marathi language, but avoid filming any retaliatory actions.
Interestingly, the event where Thackeray made these remarks was organized to celebrate the Maharashtra government's rollback of its decision to make Hindi mandatory as a third language in primary schools. This decision had faced backlash from opposition parties and language advocacy groups. During the rally, Raj Thackeray shared the stage with his brother, Uddhav Thackeray, in a rare display of unity after two decades of political estrangement. Uddhav Thackeray echoed similar sentiments of Marathi pride, stating, "Yes, we are goons; if we have to be goons to get justice, we will do goondagiri".
Raj Thackeray also addressed the issue of English-medium education, emphasizing that it does not contradict Marathi pride. He cited examples of leaders like Dada Bhuse and Devendra Fadnavis, who studied in Marathi and English-medium schools, respectively, and achieved success in their careers. He also mentioned that his father and uncle, Shrikant and Balasaheb Thackeray, also studied in English-medium schools.
The recent events and Thackeray's statements have sparked a broader discussion about the role of language in identity and politics in Maharashtra. While some view the emphasis on Marathi as essential for preserving the state's cultural heritage, others criticize it as a form of linguistic chauvinism that marginalizes non-Marathi speakers. The controversy also raises questions about the use of violence and intimidation in promoting a particular linguistic agenda.
